Whiskey stills, both legal and illegal, provided Etowah County with much of its income in the late 19th century. Whiskey stills were often hidden deep in the woods, like the still in this 1867 sketch, to discourage investigators from unwanted visits. (Courtesy Alabama Archives)

Federal Revenue Agent Holman Leatherwood ate his last meal with the wife of a whiskey still owner in the backwoods of Etowah County. After finishing dinner, Leatherwood told his hostess he was going to “see the boys” down at her husband’s still house. He saddled his horse and slowly began the long trek on the treacherous path that led to Marion Neugen’s government-sanctioned still. He was never seen again.

From the Vault

Read complete classic articles and departments featured in Alabama Heritage magazine in the past 30 years of publishing. You'll find in-depth features along with quirky and fun departments that cover the people, places, and events that make our state great!